IS ALCOHOL OR DRUG USE PUTTING SOMETHING IMPORTANT AT RISK?
You don't have to wait until you've lost your job, money, relationships, health, freedom, or future opportunities before making a change.
If alcohol or drug use is affecting your decisions—or you're concerned about someone you care about—choose the next move that fits the situation.
Recognition can be the beginning of intervention.
Ask yourself:
Has alcohol or drug use affected a decision I wouldn't normally make?
Has it affected my money, work, school, relationships or responsibilities?
Have I driven impaired or gotten into a vehicle with an impaired driver?
Have substances made it harder to maintain sexual boundaries or protection decisions?
Have the people or places connected to my use increased my exposure to violence, arrest or other consequences?
You don't need to experience the worst possible outcome before changing your position.
PROTECT YOURSELF BEFORE THE CIRCUMSTANCE MAKES THE DECISION FOR YOU.
IMPORTANT: If you've been drinking heavily for a prolonged period and are considering suddenly stopping, professional medical guidance may be important. Severe alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous. Use the treatment resources above to seek appropriate professional guidance.
NOT SURE WHERE TO START?
I know I want professional help.
Start with Find Treatment or Professional Help.
I know something needs to change, but I don't know what type of help I need.
Start with I Don't Know What Kind of Help I Need.
Alcohol specifically is causing concern.
Start with Alcohol Is My Main Concern.
I'm looking for ongoing recovery or peer support.
Start with Recovery or Peer Support.
I'm worried about someone else.
Start with Help Someone I Care About.
PROTECT — What consequence am I trying to prevent?
POSITION — What person, service, transportation plan, boundary or environment could reduce my risk?
PROGRESS — What call, search, appointment, conversation or decision will I make today?
MAINTAIN — What protective behavior is already working that I need to continue?
Choose ONE next move before leaving this page.
PROTECT • POSITION • PROGRESS • MAINTAIN